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Severn tolls to be cut before 2018 abolition

Tolls for drivers using the Severn Crossings will be cut from January ahead of the complete abolition of charges at the end of next year.

The move results from the return of the crossings to public ownership on 8 January next year. They will be managed by Highways England and VAT will no longer be charged.

From that date:

Cars will pay £5.60 instead of £6.70.

Small buses or vans will pay £11.20 down from £13.40

Lorries and coaches will pay £16.70 instead of £20

The TAG rate for regular travellers will also be cut.

The UK Government said this will be the first time the tolls have decreased since their introduction in 1966. It added that the normal annual inflation increase, which would be due on 1 January, will not be applied.

To (and from) Wales in a Mini

Alun Cairns, Secretary of State for Wales, said: ‘For so many years, the tolls on both Severn Crossings have been seen as an economic and symbolic barrier to Wales’ future prosperity.

‘Our decision to reduce the tolls - before abolishing them altogether - will cut costs for businesses, for commuters and tourists alike - helping boost jobs and trade in Wales and across the South-West.

‘This is yet another strong indicator that Wales is open for business and of the UK Government’s commitment to making the right decisions for Wales’ future as part of a strong United Kingdom.’

The Government estimates that abolishing the tolls will boost the economy of South Wales by around £100m a year, while regular motorists could save over £1,400 per year.

The UK Government has also published its response to the consultation on its proposals to reduce the Severn Crossing tolls.

It said that in view of the responses received, it is confirming that it will not press ahead with halving the tolls but instead commit to abolishing them entirely at the end of 2018.

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